Paul Arnison is confident Carlisle can win promotion into the Coca-Cola League at the first attempt despite another unsettling summer of change within the corridors of Brunton Park.

The Cumbrians are still prevented from offering new players long-term contracts due to the club's recent change in ownership.

And player boss Paul Simpson only committed himself to a new three-year United contract earlier this week despite leading last season's brave battle for survival.

However, Arnison insisted Carlisle are capable of overcoming the odds and added: "Everybody has a burning desire to do well.

"I've heard that we're the favourites to clinch the title and that's no surprise bearing in mind the history of this club.

"Other teams will come here looking to claim a scalp but we have a good blend of youth and experience here and the team spirit is exceptional.

"I don't want to stay in the Conference and I'm sure the other lads are the same. We've got to be careful but we have to be confident."

Today's visitors Canvey Island will encounter a trio of new United signings after Simpson secured the services of Chris Lumsdon, Simon Grand and Keiren Westwood on non-contract deals yesterday.

Former Sunderland midfielder Lumsdon, who left Wearside for Barnsley in a £350,000 deal, had featured in United's pre-season games against Hartlepool, Barrow and Workington while Grand played with Simpson at Rochdale. Goalkeeper Westwood was released by Manchester City earlier this summer.